SALEM, OR — Today, Secretary of State Dennis Richardson announced an historic decision to live-stream the January 23 Special Election preliminary results on Facebook before they are officially posted on state election sites.

“Nearly 70% of Americans use one or more social media platforms to connect with friends and stay up-to-date on current events, and most individuals use Facebook on a daily basis,” said Secretary Richardson. “I want to reach people where they’re at and make it as easy as possible for Oregonians to participate in their government.”

Secretary Richardson also noted that 86% of adults on Facebook are under the age of 30—a demographic that historically has lower turnout in Oregon elections.

“We need new and novel ways to engage younger voters and reaffirm that this is their government too,” said Richardson. “Live-streaming the preliminary election results is one small step we’re taking in that direction as an agency.”

Secretary Richardson is also reminding voters to mail in their ballots no later than Thursday if they haven’t already. After Thursday, voters should drop off their ballots at a local ballot drop box location to ensure their ballots are in their county elections office by next Tuesday—Election Day.

Klamath Falls News

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